7 Things You Can Do Right Now To Help Your Depression

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Depression affects an estimated 350 million people globally.  For some, depression is a fleeting condition, and for others, it is a constant battle.  Depression can be “mild” or it can be so severe that the sufferer becomes suicidal.  Even mild depression can greatly diminish a person’s quality of life.  Not only that, but depression can interfere with a person’s ability to do everyday tasks, such as go to work, take a shower or care for their family.

There are ways to fight depression, but it isn’t easy.  In some cases, treatment centers for depression are necessary.  Here are seven suggestions that can help you get out of the downward spiral:

  1.   Talk To Someone

Sounds simple, but most people with depression have a tendency to keep their problem to themselves.  It’s important to discuss how you feel with people you trust, and also with your doctor.  Your doctor can give you additional suggestions for dealing with depression. It shouldn’t necessarily be the first course of action unless the individual is suicidal or so depressed they can’t function.

  1.  Start Exercising

Yes, this isn’t easy to do when fatigue and a lack of motivation are in the way.  Exercise is one of the most powerful antidotes for depression, though.  It can begin helping you feel lighter, more energetic and more positive right away.  It will take some determination to make it a habit, but you can start right now by getting up, stretching a little and taking a brisk walk around the block.  Yes, you may feel like going back to bed, but you did it.  Do it every day.  Incorporate some strength training, cardiovascular or yoga into the mix for even better results.

  1.  Find A Support Group

Again, this requires getting out of the comfort zone a bit, but depression is a lonely place to be.  It can really feel as though you are the only person in the world suffering, but it isn’t true.  By interacting with others who have the same problem you do, you will feel better and not so isolated.

  1.  Eat Healthier Foods

The foods you eat do impact your mood.  Too much sugar and caffeine may give you a quick boost, but it will be followed by a crash that can leave you feeling even worse.  Avoid sugary foods.  Stock up on foods high in protein, and lots of veggies.

  1.   Inpatient Depression Treatment Centers

If depression is severe and won’t respond to other treatments, treatment centers for depression may be the answer.  You don’t have to just live with depression.  It can be a debilitating illness that keeps you from living your life.  Treatment for depression can help, and can provide the relief you need to get back to living.

  1.  Write It Down

 Start keeping a journal.  You don’t have to write a novel, just jot down your thoughts.  Other options are list journals and art journals.  Writing is therapeutic, and can improve mood when done on a regular basis.

These are just a few ways to help fight depression.  Get plenty of support and take care of yourself.

Resources :

http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs369/en/

 

JeniferRoberts
I am a writer and blogger.